Christmas tree permits available

Christmas tree permits for the Ferron/Price Ranger District will be sold to the public beginning Nov. 17. The tags will be sold for $5 each. There is a limited quantity of tags available; tags will be sold on a first-come first-served basis. A family may purchase only one permit in their name. Tags will not be available by mail.

You can obtain your permit at the following offices: Ferron/Price Ranger District, 115 West Canyon Road, Ferron, 435-384-2372; or the Price Supervisor's Office, 599 West Price River Drive, Price, 435-637-2817.

A tree may be cut anywhere on the Ferron/Price Ranger District, except for Huntington Canyon and Straight Canyon, in campgrounds, and timber sale areas. Trees may not be cut within 100 feet of roads.

Many aspen stands are being replaced by conifers. To slow this process, conifer removal from within aspen stands is encouraged. People must be familiar with tree species because it is illegal to cut a spruce or ponderosa pine.

The public is cautioned that the roads may be snow packed and slick, and may not be maintained at all. Depending on snowfall, some areas may only be accessible by snow machines, ATVs, skis, or on foot.

The Forest Service had proposed to increase the cost of tree permits from $5 to $10 this year, however, the proposed increase has been delayed until November 2009. The official comment period for this fee increase proposal is November 3, 2008 through December 15, 2008. If you would like to comment on the proposed fee increase, please address your comment to: Christmas Tree Fee Proposal, attn: E. Alexander, 599 W. Price River Drive, Price, UT 84501.

Cutting a Christmas tree is a holiday tradition for most people. Please follow safety rules for cold weather and make your tree cutting a wonderful adventure.